Explained: Recent brutal murders of women ignited debate on Istanbul Convention, here is why
The violent murders and the Beyoglu incident sparked nationwide protests organized by women's rights groups in various Turkish cities, October 5, 2024. (Photo via x)
In a recent address during the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) group meeting at the Turkish Parliament, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan claimed that the country’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention has had “no effect on the fight against femicide.”
His remarks came as the ongoing issue of violence against women continues to dominate the national agenda.
Addressing violence against women
President Erdogan referenced Türkiye’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention on July 1, 2021, while also addressing recent judicial reforms. He commended the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli for welcoming representatives of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) at the assembly’s opening of the new legislative year.
In contrast, Erdogan criticized the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) leader Ozgur Ozel for his recent remarks concerning closed sessions in the assembly.
Muzeyyen Sevkin, a CHP MP from Adana, emphasized that since Türkiye’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention, 1,065 women have been killed, with 768 deaths classified as suspicious.
She urged the Parliament to take action, highlighting the disturbing increase in brutal murders, including cases involving children and infants.
Criticism of Türkiye’s Withdrawal from Istanbul Convention
The Istanbul Convention, signed by Türkiye in 2011, was aimed at preventing violence against women and domestic violence. Despite concerns, President Erdogan insisted that the 2021 withdrawal “has not had the slightest negative effect on women’s rights or the fight against violence toward women,” reaffirming the government’s commitment to a “zero tolerance” policy.
“There is no opposition party that can teach us a lesson on women’s rights. No one can help us strengthen women’s status,” Erdogan stated.
CHP leader Ozgur Ozel disagreed, criticizing the government on Oct.8. “This government has not only failed to protect women and children but is also stepping back from positive actions. The clearest example is the sudden withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention in 2021.”
Since the withdrawal, the number of murdered women has remained high. In 2021, about 433 women were killed, with 409 in 2022, 419 in 2023 and 297 in the first ten months of 2024.
What was Istanbul Convention
The Istanbul Convention, officially named the “Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence,” was signed in Istanbul and took effect on August 1, 2014.
Following Türkiye’s withdrawal, the slogan “Istanbul Convention Saves Lives” became a rallying cry, highlighting the convention’s role in protecting women and vulnerable groups from violence. Women’s organizations and human rights advocates argue that the withdrawal undermines legal safeguards, leaving women more vulnerable to violence.
Efforts to combat violence
In response to the rising violence, President Erdogan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring citizens’ safety in all areas of life, stating: “We will do whatever it takes to make sure our citizens feel secure in public, at home, or at work.”
He announced reforms targeting specific crimes, proposing that prison sentences would begin after serving only 10% of the imposed punishment. Additionally, he emphasized that multiple offenders would face swift prosecution.
Erdogan stressed the importance of addressing the perception of impunity, aiming to alleviate public concerns over security and justice.
The ongoing debate about Türkiye’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention continues to reflect deeper societal issues concerning women’s rights, with questions remaining over the protection and support of victims in the face of rising violence.
